PCB Design Engineer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of electronics, the emphasis on PCB design engineers has never been stronger.

As technology progresses, the demand for skilled individuals who can design, refine, and ensure the integrity of our electronic circuits grows more urgent.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a PCB design engineer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker looking to understand the depth of this role,
• A hiring manager aiming to outline the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the nuances of PCB design engineering,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a flexible PCB design engineer job description template, crafted for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

PCB Design Engineer Duties and Responsibilities

PCB Design Engineers utilize technical, engineering-focused techniques and a deep understanding of electronic circuits to design and implement printed circuit boards (PCBs).

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Analyze the needs and requirements of the project
• Design, test and develop the printed circuit boards to meet those needs
• Recommend upgrades for existing PCB designs
• Develop separate elements of a PCB that work well in the circuit as a whole
• Create various diagrams, flowcharts and models that illustrate the layout of the PCB
• Ensure continued functionality of a PCB during maintenance and testing
• Document each aspect of a PCB design as a reference for future upgrades and maintenance
• Revisit the design process to fix issues or address client or consumer concerns
• Collaborate with other engineers and departments to ensure optimal PCB design
• Stay updated on latest trends, technology and software relating to PCB design
• Comply with all relevant safety and quality standards

 

PCB Design Engineer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented PCB Design Engineer to develop and design circuit boards.

The responsibilities of the PCB Design Engineer include creating PCB layout designs and prototypes, testing the prototypes, making necessary modifications, and preparing production documentation.

To be successful in this role, you should have a solid understanding of PCB design and fabrication, proficiency in CAD software, and the ability to troubleshoot and test PCB designs.

 

Responsibilities

• Designing PCB layouts to develop hardware that meets project requirements.
• Creating schematic symbols and PCB footprint for components used in the design.
• Working with team to determine ideal PCB design requirements.
• Developing and testing prototypes and integrated circuits.
• Checking and confirming that completed layouts and drawings are structurally and electronically sound.
• Modifying designs to correct operating deficiencies or to reduce production problems.
• Preparing design documentation for production.
• Ensuring all working processes comply with industry and safety standards and laws.

 

Qualifications

• BSc degree in Electronics or Computer Engineering or a related field.
• Proven work experience as a PCB Design Engineer or similar role.
• Proficiency in CAD software, like AutoCAD or Altium Designer.
• Knowledge of PCB design and fabrication process.
• Understanding of electrical schematics and circuit design.
• Experience with design simulation tools.
• Excellent problem-solving skills.
• High attention to detail.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Training and development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: PCB Design Engineer
• Work Environment: This position requires office work and possible visits to manufacturing facilities. Remote work options may be available.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Lead Design Engineer or Engineering Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $70,000 minimum to $120,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a PCB Design Engineer Do?

PCB Design Engineers, also known as Printed Circuit Board Engineers, primarily work in the electronics and manufacturing industries, but can also be found in the telecommunications, automotive, and aerospace sectors.

They often work as part of a larger engineering team.

Their main responsibility is to design and develop printed circuit boards, which are used in a wide variety of electronic devices.

They start by creating the schematic for the PCB using computer-aided design (CAD) software, detailing all the electrical connections.

After the schematic is complete, the PCB Design Engineer then designs the physical layout of the PCB, deciding where to place all the components and how to route the electrical connections between them.

This often involves a complex balance of considerations, including electrical noise, signal integrity, power consumption, and physical size.

Once the design is complete, they must test the prototype to ensure it functions as expected and meets all specified requirements.

If issues are detected, they need to diagnose the problem and revise the design as necessary.

Additionally, they may also be involved in choosing the materials for the PCB, specifying the manufacturing processes, and overseeing the production process to ensure the final product matches their design.

They also need to document their designs thoroughly to allow for future modifications and repairs.

They collaborate with other engineers and professionals on their teams, such as component engineers, to ensure the compatibility of components, and manufacturing engineers, to ensure the manufacturability of their designs.

They also communicate with clients or other stakeholders to understand their requirements and present their designs.

 

PCB Design Engineer Qualifications and Skills

A proficient PCB Design Engineer should have the skills and qualifications that align with the job description, such as:

• Technical expertise in printed circuit board design and a deep understanding of electrical engineering principles.
• Proficiency in PCB design software such as Altium Designer, Cadence, or Eagle to create and test PCB layouts.
• Strong analytical skills to identify and resolve circuit design issues.
• Attention to detail to ensure precision in circuit design and avoid potential issues during manufacturing.
• Understanding of manufacturing processes to ensure design is feasible for production.
• Communication skills to effectively collaborate with project teams, provide updates, and explain design choices to clients or other stakeholders.
• Problem-solving skills to address any challenges that arise during the design, testing, or manufacturing stages.
• Time management skills to deliver designs within project timelines.
• Continual learning to stay updated with the latest advancements in electronic design and PCB manufacturing technologies.

 

PCB Design Engineer Experience Requirements

Entry-level PCB Design Engineers typically need at least 1 to 2 years of experience.

This experience is often gained through internships or part-time roles in electronic design automation (EDA), electrical engineering, or similar roles that involve PCB design and circuit analysis.

Familiarity with PCB design software like Altium Designer, Cadence, or Eagle is often required.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience usually have a well-rounded background in PCB design and have often honed their skills in roles such as Electrical Engineer, Hardware Engineer, or PCB Layout Designer.

They may have experience in designing multi-layer PCBs, working with high-speed digital and RF circuits, or designing for manufacturability and testability.

Individuals with more than 5 years of experience in the field often bring a wealth of knowledge in advanced PCB design concepts, such as high-density interconnect (HDI) techniques, impedance control, or thermal management.

They may also have leadership experience and be well-suited for roles as project leads or managers in PCB design teams.

These professionals are often responsible for overseeing entire PCB design projects, from initial concept to final manufacturing.

Furthermore, experience in specific industries, such as aerospace, automotive, or medical, may be required for certain roles, given the unique design requirements and standards of these sectors.

 

PCB Design Engineer Education and Training Requirements

PCB Design Engineers typically require a bachelor’s degree in electronics engineering, electrical engineering, or a similar field.

This degree program should ideally include courses in circuit design, digital systems design, and electronics manufacturing.

In addition to the degree, a thorough understanding of circuit theory, electronic schematics, and PCB layout principles is critical.

Experience with PCB design software like AutoCAD, SolidWorks or Altium is often required.

For advanced or specialized roles, a master’s degree in electrical or electronics engineering might be required.

This degree offers in-depth understanding of circuit design, electronic components, and the PCB manufacturing process.

Industry certifications in PCB design or related software could be advantageous.

These certifications, offered by software providers or professional organizations, demonstrate a candidate’s skills and commitment to continual learning.

Continuing education and training are crucial in this fast-evolving field.

PCB Design Engineers are expected to stay updated with the latest industry trends and technological advancements.

They may do this through seminars, workshops, and additional coursework.

Work experience, particularly in a relevant industry like electronics manufacturing, can also be beneficial.

This can provide practical understanding of manufacturing processes, testing and quality control, and compliance standards.

 

PCB Design Engineer Salary Expectations

A PCB Design Engineer can expect to earn an average salary of $81,926 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings may fluctuate based on factors such as experience level, educational background, and the location of the job.

 

PCB Design Engineer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a PCB Design Engineer need?

PCB Design Engineers should have a strong understanding of electronics and electrical systems, including the ability to design and implement complex circuit designs.

They should also have strong computer skills, especially in PCB design software like AutoCAD or Altium.

Other important skills include attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and communication skills to work effectively in a team.

 

Do PCB Design Engineers need a degree?

Most PCB Design Engineers have a Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field.

This is because the job requires a deep understanding of electronic circuits and systems, which are typically taught in these degree programs.

Some positions may even require a Master’s Degree or additional professional certifications.

 

What should you look for in a PCB Design Engineer resume?

A PCB Design Engineer’s resume should highlight their education, including any degrees in Electrical Engineering or related fields.

They should also list their experience with specific PCB design software and tools, as well as any projects they’ve worked on that demonstrate their design and problem-solving skills.

Certifications related to PCB design or electrical engineering can also be a strong addition to their resume.

 

What qualities make a good PCB Design Engineer?

A good PCB Design Engineer has strong analytical skills and a keen attention to detail, as they’ll need to spot potential design issues before they become problems.

They should also be creative problem solvers, able to come up with innovative solutions to complex design challenges.

Communication skills are also important, as they’ll often need to work as part of a team and explain their designs to non-engineers.

 

Is it difficult to hire PCB Design Engineers?

Hiring PCB Design Engineers can be challenging due to the specialized skills and knowledge required for the role.

Many engineers specialize in other areas, so finding ones with expertise in PCB design can take time.

However, offering competitive salaries, opportunities for professional development, and interesting projects can help attract top talent.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve unraveled the intricate details of what it truly means to be a PCB Design Engineer.

And guess what?

It’s not just about drafting schematic diagrams.

It’s about architecting the electronic future, one circuit board at a time.

With our ready-to-use PCB Design Engineer job description template and real-world examples, you’re prepared to make your move.

But why limit yourself?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next stop for meticulously crafted job listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every circuit board is a piece of the larger puzzle.

Let’s build that future. Together.

How to Become a PCB Design Engineer (Complete Guide)

Change Your Scenery, Not Your Salary: Top Remote Jobs That Pay Well!

The Majors of the Job Market: The Most Prestigious Careers

Who Said Work Can’t Be Fun? High-Paying Jobs You’ll Love Waking Up For

AI’s Achilles Heel: Jobs That Rely on Human Brilliance